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On November 3, 2026, 3M announced a global settlement to resolve personal injury claims in the nationwide litigation over PFAS in aqueous film-forming foam, or AFFF. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they break down so slowly in the environment and the body. The firefighting foam was used for decades at military bases, airports, and fire training sites.
Under the agreement, 3M will pay $7.35 billion over nine years, from 2026 through 2034. According to 3M, the settlement addresses about 99% of current AFFF personal injury claims, involving an estimated 115,000 to 120,000 eligible plaintiffs.
Ferraro Law serves on the Plaintiffs’ Executive Committee in the AFFF litigation and represents hundreds of personal injury claimants.
“Following several years of litigation, this settlement is a huge milestone for individuals exposed to PFAS and were diagnosed with one or more of the six qualifying injuries,” said James L. Ferraro, Jr., shareholder at Ferraro Law.
What the Settlement Includes
- Payments over nine years. 3M has committed $7.35 billion, paid between 2026 and 2034.
- Broad coverage. The settlement addresses personal injury claims in the federal multidistrict litigation in South Carolina (MDL No. 2873), as well as related claims outside it.
- Enrollment required. To take part, eligible claimants must enroll in the settlement and release their PFAS-related personal injury claims against 3M.
- No admission of liability. As is common in settlements of this kind, 3M does not admit wrongdoing.
- Participation terms. The settlement depends on certain terms being met. If they are not, 3M has said it will continue to defend itself in court.
About the AFFF Litigation
The people who brought these claims include residents exposed to PFAS through contaminated drinking water, and firefighters and others who were exposed directly while handling the foam. The lawsuits claim this exposure caused serious illnesses such as kidney cancer and testicular cancer.
This settlement follows 3M’s earlier agreement with public water suppliers over PFAS contamination of drinking water. Ferraro Law also represents public water systems nationwide in PFAS water contamination claims, securing more than $250 million in settlements.
What the Settlement Means for Our Clients
The settlement process will set out how enrollment works, who is eligible, and how awards are determined. Individual amounts will depend on factors specific to each claim, and no amount can be predicted at this stage.
If you are a Ferraro Law client in the AFFF litigation, we will contact you directly with information about your claim and the next steps. You do not need to take any action until you hear from us, and you can reach out to our team at any time with questions.
What’s Next?
For more than 40 years, Ferraro Law has held powerful corporations accountable for harm caused by toxic exposure. We will continue to keep our clients informed as the settlement process moves forward. Reach out with any questions.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is evaluated on its own facts and circumstances. The information on this website is for general purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
Who qualifies for an AFFF lawsuit?
Firefighters, military personnel, airport workers, and others who have been exposed to AFFF and later diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or other PFAS-related illnesses may be eligible to file a lawsuit.
02.
How do I prove my AFFF exposure?
Exposure can be documented through work history, employment records, military service records, and medical evaluations. Our attorneys work with industry experts to establish proof of exposure and its connection to your diagnosis.
03.
Will I have to go to court?
Many AFFF lawsuits settle before reaching trial. However, if necessary, Ferraro Law is fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.
04.
How much does it cost to hire an AFFF attorney?
Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only owe legal fees if we successfully recover compensation for you.
05.
What damages can I recover in an AFFF lawsuit?
Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and wrongful death claims for families who have lost loved ones to PFAS-related illnesses.
06.
How long do I have to file an AFFF claim?
The statute of limitations varies by state, but in Florida, most personal injury claims must be filed within four years from the date of injury, while wrongful death claims typically have a two-year deadline. Since deadlines differ depending on your location and circumstances, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing key filing deadlines.
07.
Can I still file a lawsuit if I’m a retired firefighter or military veteran?
Yes, even if you are no longer actively working in firefighting or military service, you may still qualify for a claim if your illness is linked to past AFFF exposure.
08.
Can Ferraro Law help me if I don’t live in Florida?
Yes. Although based in Florida, Ferraro Law handles AFFF lawsuits nationwide. We work with local counsel when needed and have the resources to take on corporations anywhere. No matter where you live, we can evaluate your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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